News

Proud graduates, family members and friends gathered at The People’s Palace in London on Saturday 17 October 2026 for Tavistock Education and Training’s graduation ceremony, the first since becoming part of North London NHS Foundation Trust.

The event celebrated the remarkable achievements of hundreds of students whose years of hard work and perseverance had led to this milestone moment, joined by representatives from partner universities, the University of East London and the University of Essex.

Our Chief Executive, Jinjer Kandola MBE welcomed attendees on behalf of North London NHS Foundation Trust and Tavistock Education and Training.

In her speech, she said:

 

“This is a particularly special graduation ceremony because it is the first we have held since the Tavistock and Portman became part of North London NHS Foundation Trust and ‘Tavistock Education and Training’ was established. I am proud that the Tavistock has found a new home within NLFT, and honoured to be leading an institution whose legacy has helped to shape our understanding of people, relationships and systems for over a century, and whose graduates will carry that legacy forward in ways that make a meaningful difference to the lives of others.

 

At a time when awareness of the importance of mental health and wellbeing, and demand for our services, is increasing, the need for skilled, reflective and compassionate professionals has never been greater. The knowledge and perspectives you have developed through your studies will support you in meeting the challenges of our changing world, working thoughtfully within complex settings, and making a lasting difference to the people and communities whose lives you touch.

 

The enduring influence of the Tavistock lies not only in the ideas it has developed, but in the countless professionals it has equipped to help make a difference in the world. Across mental health, education, social care, leadership, consultancy and beyond, generations of alumni have carried forward a tradition of thoughtful practice, enquiry and innovation. Today, you join that community. As you leave here as graduates, you become part of a legacy that has helped to shape the way we understand human development, relationships and collective life, and which continues to inspire new ways of supporting individuals, families and communities. 

 

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. Today marks the culmination of years of hard work and perseverance, and it feels very special to be here with you, celebrating your success. This ceremony provides an opportunity to pause, reflect on how far you have come, and celebrate all that you have accomplished.

 

Each of you has reached this milestone through your own unique journey, balancing academic demands with professional responsibilities, personal commitments and the many challenges that life inevitably brings. Along the way, you have allowed yourself to be open to engaging with new and complex ideas, experiences and perspectives. You have reflected deeply on yourself and deepened your understanding of others. You have developed qualities that will serve you throughout your professional lives.

 

I also want to acknowledge and appreciate the support and sacrifices from your loved ones who helped make today possible. I hope you take time to celebrate your achievements with the family, friends, colleagues and mentors who have supported you along the way. To all those who offered their encouragement, cheerleading, and support to get you to this moment of celebration, thank you.

 

As you embark on the next phase of your journey as graduates, I encourage you to continue to learn and grow, to question and reflect, and to keep kindness and compassion at your core. I hope you feel confident in the learning and skills you have developed during your studies, whatever your next steps and path will be. I wish you every success for the future and look forward to seeing what you will go on to achieve next.”

We wish all Tavistock Education and Training graduates the very best as they move forward into the next chapters of their academic and professional lives.

Find out more about the graduation ceremony

Find out more about Tavistock Education and Training